Instead of simply tossing your sensitive documents into the trash, you might want to invest in a dedicated paper shredder. These machines are designed to quickly and effectively transform full sheets of paper into tiny scraps, making them useless for would-be identity thieves.
Most models are even powerful enough to chew through staples and paper clips, making it even more convenient to dispose of large quantities of paper. They’re also convenient for anyone who finds that bulky stacks of paper take up too much room in the recycling bin, and prefer them condensed into a small pile of shreds.
BEST OVERALL
- Can shred staples and paper clips
- Six-gallon pull-out bin
- Rolling casters
Key Specs
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 14.5 x 10.3 x 20.5 inches
- Paper Capacity: 15 sheets
- Bin Size: 6 gallons
- Weight: 22 pounds
- Cut Style: Cross
Thanks to an impressive 15-sheet capacity and security-friendly cross-cuts, this Amazon Basics shredder was an easy choice for our top overall pick. It’s also tough enough to power through staples and small paper clips and has a dedicated slot for credit cards and CDs. The automatic reverse mechanism prevents frustrating paper jams, and the LED indicators let you know the exact cause of any operational issues.
You’ll need to let it cool down for 20 minutes after 20 straight minutes of use, but that shouldn’t be a dealbreaker unless you have an especially huge amount of paper to shred.
- Cuts paper into confetti-sized pieces
- Rolling casters for easy transport
Key Specs
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 13.86 x 16.73 x 24.17 inches
- Paper Capacity: 10 sheets
- Bin Size: 5 gallons
- Weight: 25.9 pounds
- Cut: Micro
The micro-cut shredding capabilities of this shredder, combined with the power to shred CDs and credit cards, make it a great option for those who prioritize maximum security and destruction of their sensitive material. It’s designed for durability as well, with overload and overheat protection that will protect itself from unnecessary damage.
This shredder also automatically powers off after five minutes, saving energy and reducing the chances of accidents. We’re also big fans of the 5-year warranty on the cutting cylinders, and the 1-year plan for the rest of the components.
